Proximity-independent SAR mitigation

ABSTRACT

A radiofrequency (RF) power regulator includes a forward RF power detection circuit to detect forward RF power supplied by an RF transmitter circuit to an RF transmitting antenna. An RF power sampler is coupled to the forward RF power detector circuit and provides RF power samples of the supplied forward RF power. Multiple filters are coupled to receive the RF power samples. Each filter differently filters the received forward power samples to apply a different average power period. Each filter activates an RF power adjustment trigger signal while a time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RF transmitting antenna satisfies a forward RF power adjustment condition for the average power period of the filter. Forward RF power adjustment logic is coupled to filters and operable to adjust the forward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna based on the RF power adjustment trigger signal.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation application of U.S.application Ser. No. 15/674,959 filed Aug. 11, 2017, entitled“PROXIMITY-INDEPENDENT SAR MITIGATION” which claims benefit of priorityto U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/480,114, entitled “SARMitigation Techniques Using Integrated Hardware and AlgorithmicApproaches” and filed on Mar. 31, 2017, and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62,511,741, entitled “SAR Mitigation Techniques UsingIntegrated Hardware” and filed on May 26, 2017, both of which arespecifically incorporated by reference herein for all that they discloseor teach.

BACKGROUND

Communication devices often utilize proximity detection to determinewhen to consider specific absorption rate (SAR) radiofrequency (RF)power limits. When proximity of an object is detected, such devicesdetermine whether to perform RF transmission power adjustments (e.g.,reductions). However, proximity detection can involve sensors thatoccupy valuable device real estate (e.g., in a display bezel) in acommunications device.

SUMMARY

Implementations described and claimed herein address the foregoingproblems by providing a radiofrequency (RF) power regulator. The RFpower regulator includes a forward RF power detection circuit operableto detect forward RF power supplied by an RF transmitter circuit to anRF transmitting antenna. An RF power sampler is coupled to the forwardRF power detector circuit and provides RF power samples of the suppliedforward RF power. Multiple filters are coupled to receive the RF powersamples. Each filter differently filters the received forward powersamples to apply a different average power period. Each filter activatesan RF power adjustment trigger signal while a time-averaged forward RFpower supplied to the RF transmitting antenna satisfies a forward RFpower adjustment condition for the average power period of the filter.Forward RF power adjustment logic is coupled to filters and operable toadjust the forward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit tothe RF transmitting antenna based on the RF power adjustment triggersignal.

Other implementations are also described and recited herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example communications device providing SARmitigation independent of proximity detection.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example communications device schematic forproviding proximity-independent SAR mitigation.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example circuit schematic for a communicationssubsystem implementation providing proximity-independent SAR mitigation.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example circuit schematic of anothercommunications subsystem implementation providing proximity-independentSAR mitigation.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example circuit schematic for yet anothercommunications subsystem implementation providing proximity-independentSAR mitigation.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example circuit schematic for yet anothercommunications subsystem implementation providing proximity-independentSAR mitigation.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example circuit schematic for yet anothercommunications subsystem implementation providing proximity-independentSAR mitigation.

FIG. 8 illustrates example circuit schematics for multi-bandtransmission in a communications subsystem implementation providingproximity-independent SAR mitigation.

FIG. 9 illustrates example detector transfer functions.

FIG. 10 illustrates an oscilloscope plot of detected LTE transmissionfrom an LTE device using a VOIP call with normal talking speed.

FIG. 11 illustrates an oscilloscope plot of detected LTE transmissionfrom an LTE device that is uploading a file by email.

FIG. 12 illustrates example operations for detecting RF power andimplementing proximity-independent SAR mitigation.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example proximity-independent SAR mitigationframework.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation using a medium filter.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation using a fast filter.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation using a slow filter.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example system that may be useful in implementingthe described technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

Consumer electronic devices may be equipped with wireless communicationcircuitry emitting radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields that canbe absorbed by human tissue positioned in close proximity to thewireless communication circuitry. For example, the wirelesscommunications circuitry may transmit and receive RF signals in mobiletelephone RF bands, LTE RF bands, Wi-Fi network RF bands, and GPS RFbands. To protect humans from harmful levels of RF radiation when usingsuch devices, government agencies have imposed regulations limiting RFtransmission power from some wireless electronic devices, such as tabletcomputers and mobile phones.

In some jurisdictions, specific absorption rate (SAR) standards setmaximum time-averaged energy absorption limits on electronic devicemanufacturers. These standards impose restrictions on the time-averagedamount of electromagnetic radiation that may be emitted during a rollingtime window within a given distance of a transmitting radio frequency(RF) antenna. Particular attention is given to radiation limits atdistances within a few centimeters from the device (e.g., 0-3centimeters), where users are likely to place a human body part near thetransmitting antenna. For example, the U.S. Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) imposes a regulation under which phones sold in theUnited States have an average SAR level at or below 1.6 watts perkilogram (W/kg) taken over the volume containing a mass of 1 gram oftissue that is absorbing the most signal. Different regulations may beimposed for different types of devices (e.g., phone, tablet computer)and for different body parts (e.g., torso, hands, legs) in the proximityof an RF transmitting antenna. Such restrictions may be satisfied byreducing the transmitted RF signal strength when a dielectric body(e.g., a human body part) is detected in the proximity of thetransmitting antenna. Such proximity detection can be performed in avariety of ways, such as capacitive sensing or other means of measuringsignal interference.

While reducing transmitted RF signal strength may enhance user safetyand/or compliance with local safety regulations, significant reductionsin the transmitted carrier signal strength can result in decreaseddevice communication performance, including without limitation droppedconnections (e.g., a dropped call) and/or delays in the transmission ofinformation. Furthermore, proximity detection typically involves asensor that occupies scarce space within a computing device.

The disclosed technology manages transmission RF signal strength tomaintain device communication performance while controlling transmissionenergy of an electronic device to remain, on average within a rollingtime window, below a predetermined safety threshold, independent of aproximity detection. The application of transmission RF power detectionand intelligent attenuation triggering allows the technology to provideeffective proximity-independent SAR mitigation in a communicationsdevice. Accordingly, the communications device provides improved SARmitigation without allocating valuable space to proximity sensingstructures and while maintaining effective RF signal strength forcommunications during various signaling conditions and use cases.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example communications device 100 providing SARmitigation independent of proximity detection. The communications device100 may include without limitation a tablet computer, a mobile phone, alaptop computer, a network-connected device (e.g., an Internet-of-Things(“IoT”) device). In FIG. 1, the communications device 100 includes adisplay 102, although other implementations may or may not include sucha display component.

The communications device 100 also includes a radio-frequency (RF)transmitting antenna 104, which emits a transmitted RF signal 106.Certain SAR regulations limit the time-averaged amount of transmitted RFsignal energy that can be absorbed within a rolling time window by humanbody tissue 108 in proximity to the RF transmitting antenna 104. In thedescribed technology, SAR regulations can be satisfied by applying finecontrol over the time-averaged transmission RF signal power, regardlessof any proximity conditions. In other words, the communications device100 satisfies the SAR requirements whether human body tissue is inproximity or not, thereby allowing omission of a proximity detectioncomponent in the communications device 100.

Satisfaction of the SAR requirements is managed by a forward RF powerregulator 110 coupled to the RF transmitting antenna 104. The forward RFpower regulator 110 monitors and manages the time-averaged amount offorward RF power supplied to the RF transmitting antenna 104 within therolling time window specified by SAR regulations. The forward RF powerregulator 110 intelligently allocates the forward RF power availablewithin the SAR limit (or some other related threshold) and the rollingtime window to maintain SAR standard compliance and device performanceduring operation in the time following the rolling time window.

When the forward RF power regulator 110 determines that the forward RFpower should be attenuated to comply with SAR limits, the forward RFpower regulator 110 triggers a forward RF power adjustment event andsignals a modem 112 (e.g., including an RF transmitter circuit) that iscoupled to supply forward RF power to the RF transmitting antenna 104 toreduce the supplied power. Likewise, when the forward RF power regulator110 determines that the forward RF power should be increased whenadditional forward RF power is available within the rolling time window,the forward RF power regulator 110 triggers a forward RF poweradjustment event and signals a modem 112 that supplies forward RF powerto the RF transmitting antenna 104 to increase the supplied power.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic of an example communications device 200for providing SAR mitigation. The communications device 200 determinesand implements a forward RF power adjustment or attenuation function tomanage a total forward RF average power so as to not exceed apredetermined average power threshold (e.g., a SAR limit). Thecommunications device 200 may be without limitation a tablet computer,laptop, mobile phone, personal data assistant, cell phone, smart phone,Blu-Ray player, gaming system, wearable computer, home or enterpriseappliance, or any other device including wireless communicationscircuitry for transmission of an RF carrier wave. The communicationsdevice 200 includes an RF transmitting antenna 202 that transmits an RFcarrier wave. In one implementation, the carrier wave has a frequency inthe range of a mobile telephone RF transmission (e.g., several hundredmegahertz (MHz)). Other implementations are also contemplated. In theillustrated implementation, the communications device 200 represents atablet computer having mobile telephone RF capabilities.

A modem 204 (e.g., including an RF transmitter circuit) supplies forwardRF power to the RF transmitting antenna 202 to produce an RF carrierwave from the communications device 200. The modem 204 can transmit at avariety of different power levels and can vary the forward RF powersupplied to the RF transmitting antenna 202, responsive to receipt of apower adjustment instruction from a base station (not shown). Forexample, a base station may instruct the communications device 200 totransmit at different power levels based on the location of thecommunications device 200 relative to the base station or based on asignal condition, such as an impending handoff to another base station.Under various conditions, for example, lower power levels may besuitable for communications when the communications device 200 is inclose proximity to the base station, while a higher or maximum powerlevel may be requested by the base station when the communicationsdevice 200 is further away from the base station.

A forward RF power regulator 206 also monitors the forward RF powerbeing supplied to the RF transmitting antenna 202 and can vary theforward RF power supplied to the RF transmitting antenna 202, responsiveto detection of satisfaction of a forward RF power adjustment condition.High-directivity power monitoring circuitry results in detection ofpower that is substantially the forward RF power supplied by the modem204 to the RF transmitting antenna 202. In this manner, the detectedpower is not substantially polluted by reflected power directed backtoward the modem 204 due to imperfect antenna terminating impedance.Various example high-directivity monitoring circuits are describedherein, although others may be employed.

In general, the forward RF power regulator 206 monitors the forward RFpower supplied to the RF transmitting antenna 202 and adjusts theforward RF power (whether up or down) when the forward RF poweradjustment condition is satisfied. In one implementation, the adjustmentcan be made by instructing the modem 204 to adjust its output RF powerto the RF transmitting antenna 202. In another implementation, theoutput RF power from the modem 204 can be attenuated at varying levelsbased on power adjustment instructions from the forward RF powerregulator 206 to a power attenuator placed in the coupling between themodem 204 and the RF transmitting antenna 202. Other adjustment controlsmay be employed.

A “forward RF power adjustment condition” refers to a condition relatingto the average transmit RF power supplied to the RF transmitting antenna202 and its relationship to the SAR limit. The forward RF poweradjustment condition, in one implementation, presents an average forwardRF power limit for a given rolling time window, such as a time periodset by SAR regulations. An average transmission RF power limit for thecondition may be set at or below the SAR limit. Setting the averagetransmit RF power limit below the SAR limit provide an amount oftolerance to reduce SAR mitigation failures, although there are otherapproaches to avoid SAR mitigation failures (e.g., a worst-caseadjustment condition that terminates transmission for a period of timeif the average transmit RF power approaches or meets the SAR limit).

One implementation of the described technology employs multiple filterbanks to monitor the forward RF power supplied to the RF transmittingantenna 202. Each filter bank filters at a different cut-off frequencythan another filter bank and therefore applies a different average powerperiod to the samples. If the average forward RF power is within theaverage power period of a filter bank (referred to as a “filter”), thenthe filter activates an RF power adjustment trigger signal. If thecontrol logic selects the triggering filter, based on inputs such asnetwork conditions and/or transmission requirements, then the triggerpoint control logic initiates a transmit RF power adjustment event.

As described, the forward RF power regulator 206 monitors the forward RFpower supplied to the RF transmitting antenna 202 and varies thesupplied power in order to maintain an average transmission power belowthe SAR limit within a rolling time window. The forward RF powerregulator 206 can evaluate a variety of signaling condition inputs todetermine when and how to adjust the supplied power, including withoutlimitation transmitting frequency, transmitting band, modulation scheme,GPS location of the communications device 200, channel conditions (e.g.,conditions relating to quality and interference in signal communicationswith a base station), scheduled channel activities, current channelactivities, movement characteristics of the communications device 200(such as with respect to a base station, shielding, etc.), currenttransmission power, distance from a base station or cell tower, etc.Accordingly, the evaluation is predictive of signaling conditionsexpected to be experienced by the communications device 200.

Furthermore, the forward RF power regulator 206 can evaluate a varietyof transmission requirement inputs to determine when and how to adjustthe supplied power, including without limitation the level oftransmission activity being experienced and expected to be experiencedby the communications device 200 (e.g., uploading a large data filerepresents a high level of transmission activity whereas downloading alarge data file or handling a VOIP call represents a low level oftransmission activity), the importance of successful transmission forcritical transmissions (e.g., an imminent handoff to a new base stationor cell tower or an Emergency 911 call), etc. Accordingly, theevaluation is predictive of recently experienced transmission activityand expected transmission requirements of the communications device 200.

Example operational characteristics of the forward RF power regulator206 are shown in an exploded view 212. A SAR limit represents aregulatory limit for a time-averaged transmission power within a rollingtime window. In various implementations, satisfaction of a forward RFpower adjustment condition is achieved when a time-averaged forward RFpower exceeds an average power threshold that is less than or equal tothe SAR limit. It should be understood that the average power thresholdof the example forward RF power adjustment condition may vary dependingon network conditions, transmission requirements a selected filter bank,etc.

Actual transmission power 214 is shown in view 212, as adjusted by theRF power regulator 206. Average power monitoring results of three filterbanks (fast filter 216, medium filter 218, and slow filter 220) are alsoshown, with the fast filter 216 detecting satisfaction of a forward RFpower adjustment condition at multiple points in time (reflected by thefast filter 216 plot satisfying the forward RF power adjustmentcondition (e.g., average power exceeds a threshold within an averagepower period of the filter)). Each detected satisfaction of a forward RFpower adjustment condition within the average power period of a filterresults in issuance of an RF power adjustment trigger signal. If thetrigger point control logic selects the triggering filter, based oninputs such as network conditions and/or transmission requirements, thenthe control logic initiates a transmit RF power adjustment event,represented in view 212 as an attenuation of the actual transmissionpower 214.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example circuit schematic for a communicationssubsystem implementation 300 providing proximity-independent SARmitigation. The communications subsystem implementation 300 includes amodem 302 (e.g., an RF transmitter circuit), an RF transmitting antenna304, and a forward RF power regulator 320, which includes a forward RFpower detection circuit 306. In the illustrated communications subsystemimplementation 300, the forward RF power detection circuit 306 includesa directional coupler 307. The forward RF power regulator 320 alsoincludes a detector 308, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 310, and aSAR controller 312. The modem 302 may include an LTE modem, a Wi-Firadio, or other transmitting radio benefiting from RF transmit powermonitoring and reduction for SAR compliance.

The forward RF power regulator 320 may be implemented in the form of asystem-on-a-chip (SOC), an application-specific integrated circuit(ASIC), discrete circuitry, etc. that may be implemented withexisting/future modems/antennas or integrated into such components. Thedirection coupler 307 may be positioned or insertable next to an antennaRF transmission line coupling (e.g., an RF transmission line coupling314). In one implementation, the directional coupler 307 demonstratesthe simultaneous properties of low insertion loss on the RF transmissionline coupling 314 (antenna-to-modem) and high directivity. Highdirectivity provides that the detected power is substantially theforward RF power transmitted from the modem 302 to the RF transmittingantenna 304 and is not substantially polluted by reflected powerdirected back towards the modem 302 due to imperfect antenna terminatingimpedance.

The output of the directional coupler 307 (e.g., a lower amplitude copyof the transmit RF power output of the modem 302) is fed to a detectorcircuit (e.g., the detector 308), which may be a type ofroot-mean-square (RMS) detector circuit. The detector circuit producesan output signal that is both:

1) Proportional to the duty cycle of the transmit signal of the modem302 and

2) Proportional to the amplitude of the transmit signal of the modem302.

The low-frequency output signal from the detector circuit (e.g., thedetector 308) can be moved into the digital domain, for signalprocessing, via the ADC 310, which may be a low-cost ADC. The SARcontroller 312 monitors the digitized low-frequency output signal andinstructs the modem 302 to perform power adjustments for SAR compliance,when appropriate (e.g., when a forward RF power adjustment condition issatisfied). Logarithmic computation can be applied to satisfy applicableregulatory SAR paradigms. The SAR controller 312 may include hardwareand/or software stored in a processor-readable medium storingprocessor-executable instructions for reading RF power inputs from theADC 310 and determining whether transmit RF power adjustments areneeded. The SAR controller 312 may include one or more processors,processing cores, microprocessors, etc.

In particular, SAR is a time-averaged measurement. Even though someperiods of signal transmission will be at transmission power levels thatexceed the allowed regulatory limit for body SAR (0 mm space, or smallspace e.g. 5 mm or 10 mm for some device form factors), the circuitconfiguration in FIG. 3 can be used to accurately monitor the average RFpower over time. Computation, in near real time, provides legalcompliance to time-averaged SAR. If the legal limit were to be reached,a logic signal output from the SAR controller 312 will trigger atransmit RF power adjustment event in the modem 302 or associatedcircuitry (e.g., an attenuation circuit at the output of the modem 302).

FIG. 4 illustrates an example circuit schematic for anothercommunications subsystem implementation 400 providing SAR mitigation.The communications subsystem implementation 400 includes a modem 402(e.g., an RF transmitter circuit), an RF transmitting antenna 404, and aforward RF power regulator 420, which includes a forward RF powerdetection circuit 406. Specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates a hardwarevariant wherein the forward RF power detection circuit (e.g., theforward RF power detection circuit 306 of FIG. 3) is replaced by aforward RF power detection circuit 406 that includes a capacitive tap407, a circulator 409, and an inductor 411 that is connected to ground.In this case, the capacitive tap 407 couples a small amount of forwardRF power from the main modem-to-antenna coupling (e.g., the RFtransmission line coupling 414 to an RF transmitting antenna 404) to adetector 408. The forward RF power regulator 420 also includes adetector 408, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 410, and a SARcontroller 412. The modem 402 may include an LTE modem, a Wi-Fi radio,or other transmitting radio benefiting from RF transmit power monitoringand reduction for SAR compliance.

The output of the capacitive tap 407 (e.g., a lower amplitude copy ofthe transmit RF power output of the modem 402) is fed to a detectorcircuit (e.g., the detector 408), which may be a type ofroot-mean-square (RMS) detector circuit. The detector circuit producesan output signal that is both:

1) Proportional to the duty cycle of the transmit signal of the modem402 and

2) Proportional to the amplitude of the transmit signal of the modem402.

The position of the capacitive tap 407 (e.g., protected by thecirculator 409, which directs reflected RF power through the inductor411 to ground) substantially eliminates measurement inaccuracy riskassociated with reflected power and imperfect antenna terminatingimpedance. The capacitive tap 407, the detector 408, ananalog-to-digital converter (ADC) 410, a SAR controller 412, thecirculator 409 and/or the inductor 411 may be part of a system-on-a-chip(SOC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), discretecircuitry, etc. that may be positioned on the RF transmission linecoupling 414 (antenna-to-modem) to detect forward RF power supplied bythe modem 402 to the RF transmitting antenna 404 and to direct the modem402 to perform forward RF power adjustments upon satisfaction of aforward RF power adjustment condition (e.g., average power during arolling window reaching the SAR legal limit or some related limit).

FIG. 5 illustrates an example circuit schematic for anothercommunications subsystem implementation 500 providingproximity-independent SAR mitigation. The communications subsystemimplementation 500 includes a modem 502 (e.g., an RF transmittercircuit), an RF transmitting antenna 504, and a forward RF powerregulator 520, which includes a forward RF power detection circuit 506.Specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates a hardware variant wherein the forwardRF power detection circuit (e.g., the forward RF power detection circuit306 of FIG. 3) is replaced by a forward RF power detection circuit 506that includes a directional coupler 507, a circulator 509, and aninductor 511 that is connected to ground. The forward RF power regulator520 also includes a detector 508, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC)510, and a SAR controller 512. The modem 502 may include an LTE modem, aWi-Fi radio, or other transmitting radio benefiting from RF transmitpower monitoring and reduction for SAR compliance.

The position of the directional coupler 507 (e.g., protected by thecirculator 509, which directs reflected RF power through the inductor511 to ground) substantially eliminates measurement inaccuracy riskassociated with reflected power and imperfect antenna terminatingimpedance. The forward RF power regulator 520 may be implemented in theform of a system-on-a-chip (SOC), an application-specific integratedcircuit (ASIC), discrete circuitry, etc. that may be implemented withexisting/future modems/antennas or integrated into such components. Thedirection coupler 507 may be positioned or insertable next to an antennaRF transmission line coupling (e.g., an RF transmission line coupling514). In one implementation, the directional coupler 507 demonstratesthe simultaneous properties of low insertion loss on the RF transmissionline coupling 514 (antenna-to-modem) and high directivity. Highdirectivity provides that the detected power is substantially theforward RF power transmitted from the modem 502 to the RF transmittingantenna 504 and is not substantially polluted by reflected powerdirected back towards the modem 502 due to imperfect antenna terminatingimpedance.

The output of the directional coupler 507 (e.g., a lower amplitude copyof the transmit RF power output of the modem 502) is fed to a detectorcircuit (e.g., the detector 508), which may be a type ofroot-mean-square (RMS) detector circuit. The detector circuit producesan output signal that is both:

1) Proportional to the duty cycle of the transmit signal of the modem502 and

2) Proportional to the amplitude of the transmit signal of the modem502.

The low-frequency output signal from the detector circuit (e.g., thedetector 508) can be moved into the digital domain, for signalprocessing, via the ADC 510, which may be a low-cost ADC. The SARcontroller 512 monitors the digitized low-frequency output signal andinstructs the modem 502 to perform power adjustments for SAR compliance,when appropriate (e.g., when a forward RF power adjustment condition issatisfied). Logarithmic computation can be applied to satisfy applicableregulatory SAR paradigms. The SAR controller 512 may include hardwareand/or software stored in a processor-readable medium storingprocessor-executable instructions for reading RF power inputs from theADC 510 and determining whether transmit RF power adjustments areneeded. The SAR controller 512 may include one or more processors,processing cores, microprocessors, etc.

In particular, SAR is a time-averaged measurement. Even though someperiods of signal transmission will be at transmission power levels thatexceed the allowed regulatory limit for body SAR (0 mm space, or smallspace e.g. 5 mm or 10 mm for some device form factors), the circuitconfiguration in FIG. 5 can be used to accurately monitor the average RFpower over time. Computation, in near real time, provides legalcompliance to time-averaged SAR. If the legal limit were to be reached,a logic signal output from the SAR controller 512 will trigger atransmit RF power adjustment event in the modem 502 or associatedcircuitry (e.g., an attenuation circuit at the output of the modem 502).

FIG. 6 illustrates an example circuit schematic of anothercommunications subsystem implementation 600 providingproximity-independent SAR mitigation. The communications subsystemimplementation 600 includes a modem 602 (e.g., an RF transmittercircuit), an RF transmitting antenna 604, and a forward RF powerregulator 620, which includes a forward RF power detection circuit 606.Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates a hardware variant wherein the forwardRF power detection circuit (e.g., the forward RF power detection circuit306 of FIG. 3) is replaced by a forward RF power detection circuit 606that includes a capacitive tap 607, and an isolator 609. In this case,the capacitive tap 607 couples a small amount of forward RF power fromthe main modem-to-antenna coupling (e.g., the RF transmission linecoupling 614 to an RF transmitting antenna 604) to a detector 608. Theforward RF power regulator 620 also includes a detector 608, ananalog-to-digital converter (ADC) 610, and a SAR controller 612. Themodem 602 may include an LTE modem, a Wi-Fi radio, or other transmittingradio benefiting from RF transmit power monitoring and reduction for SARcompliance.

The output of the capacitive tap 607 (e.g., a lower amplitude copy ofthe transmit RF power output of the modem 602) is fed to a detectorcircuit (e.g., the detector 608), which may be a type ofroot-mean-square (RMS) detector circuit. The detector circuit producesan output signal that is both:

1) Proportional to the duty cycle of the transmit signal of the modem602 and

2) Proportional to the amplitude of the transmit signal of the modem602.

The position of the capacitive tap 607 (e.g., protected by the isolator609) substantially eliminates measurement inaccuracy risk associatedwith reflected power and imperfect antenna terminating impedance. Thecapacitive tap 607, the detector 608, an analog-to-digital converter(ADC) 610, a SAR controller 612, and/or the isolator 609 may be part ofa system-on-a-chip (SOC), an application-specific integrated circuit(ASIC), discrete circuitry, etc. that may be positioned on the RFtransmission line coupling 614 to detect forward RF power supplied bythe modem 602 to the RF transmitting antenna 604 and to direct the modem602 to perform forward RF power adjustments upon satisfaction of aforward RF power adjustment condition (e.g., average power during arolling window reaching the SAR legal limit or some related limit).

FIG. 7 illustrates an example circuit schematic for anothercommunications subsystem implementation 700 providingproximity-independent SAR mitigation. The communications subsystemimplementation 700 includes a modem 702 (e.g., an RF transmittercircuit), an RF transmitting antenna 704, and a forward RF powerregulator 720, which includes a forward RF power detection circuit 706.Specifically, FIG. 7 illustrates a hardware variant wherein the forwardRF power detection circuit (e.g., the forward RF power detection circuit306 of FIG. 3) is replaced by a forward RF power detection circuit 706that includes a directional coupler 707 and an isolator 709. The forwardRF power regulator 720 also includes a detector 708, ananalog-to-digital converter (ADC) 710, and a SAR controller 712. Themodem 702 may include an LTE modem, a Wi-Fi radio, or other transmittingradio benefiting from RF transmit power monitoring and reduction for SARcompliance.

The position of the directional coupler 707 (e.g., protected by theisolator 709) substantially eliminates measurement inaccuracy riskassociated with reflected power and imperfect antenna terminatingimpedance. The forward RF power regulator 720 may be implemented in theform of a system-on-a-chip (SOC), an application-specific integratedcircuit (ASIC), discrete circuitry, etc. that may be implemented withexisting/future modems/antennas or integrated into such components. Thedirection coupler 707 may be positioned or insertable next to an antennaRF transmission line coupling (e.g., an RF transmission line coupling714). In one implementation, the directional coupler 707 demonstratesthe simultaneous properties of low insertion loss on the RF transmissionline coupling 714 and high directivity. High directivity provides thatthe detected power is substantially the forward RF power transmittedfrom the modem 702 to the RF transmitting antenna 704 and is notsubstantially polluted by reflected power directed back towards themodem 702 due to imperfect antenna terminating impedance.

The output of the directional coupler 707 (e.g., a lower amplitude copyof the transmit RF power output of the modem 702) is fed to a detectorcircuit (e.g., the detector 708), which may be a type ofroot-mean-square (RMS) detector circuit. The detector circuit producesan output signal that is both:

1) Proportional to the duty cycle of the transmit signal of the modem702 and

2) Proportional to the amplitude of the transmit signal of the modem702.

The low-frequency output signal from the detector circuit (e.g., thedetector 708) can be moved into the digital domain, for signalprocessing, via the ADC 710, which may be a low-cost ADC. The SARcontroller 712 monitors the digitized low-frequency output signal andinstructs the modem 702 to perform power adjustments for SAR compliance,when appropriate (e.g., when a forward RF power adjustment condition issatisfied). Logarithmic computation can be applied to satisfy applicableregulatory SAR paradigms. The SAR controller 712 may include hardwareand/or software stored in a processor-readable medium storingprocessor-executable instructions for reading RF power inputs from theADC 710 and determining whether transmit RF power adjustments areneeded. The SAR controller 712 may include one or more processors,processing cores, microprocessors, etc.

In particular, SAR is a time-averaged measurement. Even though someperiods of signal transmission will be at transmissions power levelsthat exceed the allowed regulatory limit for body SAR (0 mm space, orsmall space e.g. 5 mm or 10 mm for some device form factors), thecircuit configuration in FIG. 7 can be used to accurately monitor theaverage RF power over time. Computation, in near real time, provideslegal compliance to time-averaged SAR. If the legal limit were to bereached, a logic signal output from the SAR controller 712 will triggera transmit RF power adjustment event in the modem 702 or associatedcircuitry (e.g., an attenuation circuit at the output of the modem 702).

FIG. 8 illustrates example circuit schematics 800 for multi-bandtransmission in a communications subsystem implementation providingproximity-independent SAR mitigation. Specifically, FIG. 8 illustrates alow band circuit 840 for RF power detection and SAR control and amiddle/high band circuit 842 for RF power detection and SAR control. Thenumber of circuits depends on the type/amount of transmission ports fora cellular modem. For example, some modems use a low/middle/high bandport, and as such, a single circuit may be used for RF power detectionand SAR control. In other implementations, a modem may have a low/middleband port and a high band port. As such, an RF power detection and SARcontrol circuit may correspond to the low/middle band port, and an RFpower detection and SAR control circuit may correspond to the high bandport.

In the implementation illustrated in FIG. 8, the low band circuit 840includes a modem low band transmission (Tx) port 802, which outputs anRF signal through an RF test connector 804 to a low band antenna 808. Adirectional coupler 806 (or a capacitive tap) receives some of the RFtransmission power from the RF signal output from the modem low band Txport 802. The RF signal received at the directional coupler 806 isoutput to a 10 dB pad 810 (or another dB pad). The RMS detector 812receives the signal from the 10 dB pad and outputs a low-frequencysignal to an analog to digital converter (ADC) 814. The ADC 814 outputsa digital signal to a SAR controller 816. The SAR controller 816compares the detected RF power (in digital signal form) to storedpatterns to determine the transmission context. Based on the determinedtransmission context, the SAR controller 816 determines an averagingscheme to determine average RF power over time. Based on the determinedaverage RF power, the SAR controller 816 may recommend RF poweradjustment to a modem that includes the modem low band Tx port 802.

The middle/high band circuit 842 includes a modem middle/high bandtransmission (Tx) port 820, which outputs an RF signal through an RFtest connector 822 to a low band antenna 826. A directional coupler 824(or a capacitive tap) receives some of the RF transmission power fromthe RF signal output from the middle/high band Tx port 820. The RFsignal received at the directional coupler is output to a 10 dB pad 828(or other dB pad). The RMS detector 830 receives the signal from the 10dB pad 828 and outputs a low-frequency signal to an analog to digitalconverter (ADC) 832. The ADC 832 outputs a digital signal to a SARcontroller 834. The SAR controller 834 compares the detected RF power(in digital signal form) to stored patterns to determine thetransmission context. Based on the determined transmission context, theSAR controller 834 determines an averaging scheme to determine averageRF power over time. Based on the determined average RF power, the SARcontroller 834 may recommend RF power adjustment to a modem thatincludes the modem middle/high band Tx port 820.

In implementations, the 10 dB pad (e.g., the 10 dB pad 810 and 828) areoptional and depend on the type/characteristics of connected RMSdetector. In some implementations, no pad is included, and in otherimplementations, the characteristics of the pad are different. In someimplementations, the SAR controllers 816 and 834 may be a singleprocessing unit where determining/averaging algorithms are running andmonitoring signals and making SAR adjustment recommendations. Thecircuits (e.g., low band circuit 840 and the middle/high band circuit842) may include isolators and/or circulators as described above.

FIG. 9 illustrates example detector transfer functions 900.Specifically, FIG. 9 illustrates example output plots of a detector(e.g., the detectors of FIGS. 3-7) in an LTE mobile device. LTE mobiledevices operate and transmit accepting transmit power level instructionsfrom the cellular network. The cell tower will instruct the mobiledevice to transmit at higher RF power levels when far away from thetower, and at lower RF power levels when closer to the tower. Thistranslates to a requirement for the monitoring circuit (e.g., thedetector circuit) to be able to produce an accurate output for a widerange of input RF amplitudes. FIG. 9 exposes that it is entirelypossible to accurately monitor a wide range of input RF amplitudes andproduce a proportional detected output signal. The detector circuit isalso broadband that can function for both LTE and Wi-Fi frequencyranges.

FIG. 10 illustrates an oscilloscope plot 1000 of detected LTEtransmission from an LTE device using a VOIP call with normal talkingspeed. The measured duty cycle is 27%. The detector circuit (see FIGS.3-7) was used to monitor the LTE transmissions from a tablet deviceoperating on a cellular network for various device use conditions. Whenthe tablet was placed in a VOIP call, with ‘normal’ speech talkingspeed, the transmit duty cycle was approximately 27%. The modem does nottransmit continuously in this operating condition. An oscilloscope wasused to monitor the detector output signal for this operating condition.

The discontinuous transmission of FIG. 10 occurs during a VOIP call,averaging techniques that include the periods of non-transmission, havethe potential to deliver long phone calls without applying a poweradjustment at all, all while being compliant with safety requirements.The details—distance from a cell tower and the time average windowspecified by the regulatory agency, impact the implementation. Forexample, the transmission context (e.g., VOIP call) may be determinedbased on a comparison of the detected transmission power levels overtime and an averaging scheme is determined based on the transmissioncontext (e.g., signal conditions). The selected averaging scheme mayutilize the periods of low/zero transmission (e.g., a period 1002) tooffset the periods of high transmission (e.g., a period 1004) indetermining transmission power over time to satisfy SAR legal limits.

FIG. 11 illustrates an oscilloscope plot 1100 of detected LTEtransmission from an LTE device that is uploading a file by email. Thedevice was transmitting a large file (as an email attachment) from thetablet. The transmit duty cycle is almost 100%.

In a situation (e.g., transmission context) where the mobile device isuploading very large files for a protracted period of time while farfrom a cell tower (hence high transmission power), FIG. 11 illustratesthat the RF output is nearly continuous (for a period) and at a highamplitude. Computational techniques applied to this signal could easilyforecast when the time averaged exposure limit was being approached.Modem transmit behavior could be reduced to the safe low power level fora duration needed to maintain safety limits when modem transmit power isrestored. A fast averaging scheme may be selected for the transmissioncontext illustrated in FIG. 11. As such, any small changes intransmission power level will be used to determine the averagetransmission power for the satisfaction of SAR legal limits over time.

Averaging techniques (e.g., fast averaging) with a more advancedalgorithmic method may invoke a smaller, less dramatic power adjustmentbefore approaching a ‘brick wall’ back-off needed to observe safelimits. This more gradual application of power adjustment combines thebenefits of observing safe transmission levels and providing a superiorcustomer user experience.

The detector output waveform (e.g., FIG. 10 or FIG. 11) is arepresentation of the RF input waveform. A low-frequency signal isoutput from the detector and the signal is very well suited for low-costsignal processing, to assess RF transmit duty cycle and RF transmitpower level.

The FCC discusses SAR limits as an average over an allowed period oftime. Implementations described herein remove the need for instantaneousapplication of SAR back-off while in object proximity (e.g., usingproximity detection techniques). Guaranteeing safety can then beaccomplished without a proximity detection and relying more on smartaveraging that can be adaptively and dynamically adjusted to satisfy FCCwhile eliminating the need for a proximity sensor.

FIG. 12 illustrates example operations 1200 for detecting RF power andimplementing proximity-independent SAR control. The operations may beperformed by an RF power detector and/or a SAR controller embodied on asystem on chip (SOC), application specific integrated circuit, amicroprocessing unit (MU), etc. Instructions for the operations 1200 maybe embodied in instructions stored on a processor readable storagemedia. A setting operation 1202 sets an RF transmission power limit in amobile device. The RF transmission power limit may be set independent ofdetection of proximity of an object to an antenna of the device. Thelimit may be static and/or dependent on SAR legal limit thresholds. Adetecting operation 1204 detects an RF transmission signal power of anRF signal communicated from a modem to an antenna of the mobile device.The detecting operation 1204 may be performed by a detector which mayutilize a capacitive tap or a directional coupler. It should beunderstood that the forward power from the modem to the antenna isdetected and not the reflected power from impedance mismatches betweenthe antenna and the transmission line. A converting operation 1206converts the detected RF signal power to a digital signal. Theconverting operation 1206 may be performed by an analog to digitalconverter (ADC).

A monitoring operation 1208 monitors the converted digital signal. Adetermining operation 1210 determines transmission signals conditions(e.g., context) of the mobile device. The determining operation 1210 maybe performed by comparing the detected (converted) RF signal power tostored transmission power contexts. Such transmission power contexts mayinclude high transmission power contexts (e.g., file transmission),medium transmission power contexts (e.g., VOIP call), and lowtransmission power contexts (e.g., passive transmission). An averagingoperation 1212 time averages the monitored digital signal using theselected averaging scheme.

A selecting operation 1214 selects a time averaging filter based on thedetermined transmission signal conditions. The time averaging schemecorresponds to the determined context. For example, a fast averagingscheme may be utilized to time average a high transmission power contextto take advantage of the many dips in transmission power. A slowaveraging scheme may be utilized in a low transmission power context totake advantage of periods of low (e.g., almost zero) transmission power.The selection of the averaging scheme may include selectingfilters/filter coefficients. An initiating operation 1216 initiates anadjustment of the RF transmission power of the mobile device based onthe time averaged signal (according to the selected filter) and the RFtransmission power limit. The initiating operation 1216 may utilize thecurrent time averaged transmission power to determine if/when thetransmission power may exceed the set RF transmission power limit.Furthermore, an amount of buffer in the RF transmission power may beconsidered. The operations 1200 may be performed in real-time and assuch, the time average and RF transmission power may be determined on amoving time-window basis.

The transmission contexts may include different transmission patternswhich can be constructed by a set of signal transmission characteristicsthat are combined based on pre-stored knowledge of a transmissiontechnology (e.g. LTE) to determine how best to produce an attenuationprofile that is optimal for OTA wireless operations while keeping theFCC average satisfied. The outcome (e.g., determined context) is thenused to determine which type of filter averaging will be used for thenext set of attenuation decisions, the type of filter used and itsassociated filter coefficients. In addition to producing an adjustmentvalue, the combined logic of such an overall operation takes intoaccount setting aside certain transmission budgets that can be set asideintelligently for anticipating future needs where a high-power periodmight be required.

It should be understood that the described operations 1204, 1206, 1208,1210, 1212, and 1214 may be performed continuously or periodically,repeating as transmission power monitoring continues. Further, theoperation 1216 may be performed whenever the time-averaged signal andthe RF transmission power trigger an RF transmission power adjustmentinstruction.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example proximity-independent SAR mitigationframework 1300. A forward RF power detection circuit 1302 monitors theforward RF power supplied by an RF transmitting circuit 1328 (e.g., in amodem) to an RF transmitting antenna 1330 via an RF transmission linecoupling 1303. An RF power sampler 1304 samples the monitored forward RFpower and provides samples forward power samples to filters 1306,including filter bank 0 through filter bank N. Each filter bank filtersat a different cut-off frequency than another filter bank and thereforeapplies a different average power period to the samples (e.g., averagingthe forward RF power over a different average power period).

The filters 1306 issue a trigger for each filter that satisfies theforward RF power adjustment condition. Trigger point logic 1308 receivesthe triggers, selecting one or more triggers based on inputs includingwithout limitation network conditions 1310 and/or transmissionrequirements 1312. Control logic 1314 of the trigger point logic 1308processes the inputs and passes the processed inputs to a filterselector 1316, which selects the filter from which to accept a triggerat any specific point in time, based on the processed inputs.Additionally, override logic 1309 may override a filtered trigger (e.g.,if unfiltered samples of the monitored forward RF power risks breachingthe SAR limit within the regulatory rolling time window, the overridelogic 1309 may simply trigger an immediate adjustment, irrespective ofany filter-based average power period).

Attenuation profile logic 1320 receives triggers from the selectedfilters and, based on inputs including without limitation networkconditions 1310 and transmission requirements 1312, applies anattenuation profile, which specifies an attenuation duration andpotentially incremental attenuation events and magnitudes during theattenuation duration. See, e.g., FIGS. 14-17 for example attenuationprofiles. Control logic 1322 of the Attenuation profile logic 1320processes the inputs and passes the processed inputs to a profileselector 1324, which selects an appropriate attenuation profile for theprocessed inputs. For example, in a high transmit activity scenario(e.g., a file download), the attenuation profile may be more dramaticand/or abrupt than in a low transmit activity scenario (e.g., a VOIPcall). The profile selector 1324 also sends power adjustmentinstructions to the RF transmitting circuit 1328 to adjust powersupplied to the RF transmitting antenna 1330.

Additionally, override logic 1326 may override an input-dependentattenuation profile (e.g., if the monitored forward RF power risksbreaching the SAR limit within the regulatory rolling time window, theoverride logic 1326 may simply terminate transmission power for a periodof time).

FIG. 14 illustrates an example attenuation profile 1402 applicable bycontrol logic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation. In oneimplementation, a time-averaging scheme that relies on monitoring thepower levels at the antenna(s) over an average time period. Variousfilters may be used to filter monitored power levels, with each filter(or filter bank) averaging over its own average power period. Byaveraging power samples received from a detector using a set ofdynamically selected filters, back off decisions (e.g., powerattenuation decisions) may be determined using a mix of variant filtertaps based on the total transmit time, total power average, signalconditions, SAR limits, technology factors, reserved SAR headroom,filter flush based on SAR time average (e.g. within an FCC allowedrolling time window), and many other related variables. Reserved SARheadroom is considered for total power budget spending to account forand guarantee of critical over the air (OTA) transmit events.

In some implementations, recursive averaging techniques are used. Insuch implementations, a slow averaging filter (e.g., passing lowerfrequency samples) is used in low transmission modes (e.g., a VOIP call)while a faster averaging filter (e.g., also passing higher frequencysamples) is used in high transmission modes (e.g., uploading a largedata file). Filter buffers may be flushed at selected periods (e.g.,when maximum averaging periods are reached or other system conditionsmandate it). In both slow averaging and fast averaging, SAR headroom maybe reserved by forcing transmission power adjustment periodically ifconditions allow it (e.g. more likely in a fast running average). Manyother averaging filters may be employed within the range set by the“fast” and “slow” averaging filters.

A decision counter, which may comprise a part of the SAR controllerdescribed above, determines a transmission context (e.g., based on oneor more signal conditions) based on the pre-determined anddynamically-determined patterns. For example, pre-determined patternsfor file uploads, VOIP calls, web browsing, passive data transmission,and other types of data transmission contexts may be stored in memory.Dynamically-determined patterns may include without limitation patternslearned based on feedback about signal conditions from a base station,etc. These patterns may vary based on the distance between a device anda tower, which may be known by the device/system disclosed herein. Thedecision counter may compare detected power on the modem-to-antennatransmission line coupling to the pre-determined powers to determine thetransmission context. Based on the determined context, an averagingscheme (e.g., filters) is selected to determine the average transmissionpower.

A slow averaging scheme is selected for a low transmission context(e.g., a “good” signal condition, a low transmission activity). A“medium” averaging scheme is selected for a determined moderatetransmission context. A fast averaging scheme is selected for a hightransmission context (e.g., a “bad” signal condition, a hightransmission activity). It should be understood that more than the threeillustrated transmission contexts may be determined and that differentaveraging schemes may correspond to such contexts. Furthermore, itshould be understood that the system may, in real-time, determine achange in context, and thus the averaging scheme (e.g., applied filters)may change.

As discussed, different attenuation profiles at any particular time maybe applied to forward RF power adjustment event, depending on the inputssuch as network conditions and/or transmission requirements. The plot1400 depicts actual RF transmission power over time (subject todiffering levels of attenuation).

The attenuation profile 1402 depicts the incremental levels ofattenuation applied to the actual RF transmission power over time,responsive to triggering of a forward RF power adjustment event andselection of the attenuation profile. The edge 1404 generally depicts anincremental increase in attenuation magnitude over time, contributing toa decrease in the magnitude of actual RF transmission power spikes overtime. The edge 1406 generally depicts an incremental decrease inattenuation magnitude over time, contributing to an increase in themagnitude of actual RF transmission power spikes over time.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation using a medium filter. Asdiscussed, different attenuation profiles at any particular time may beapplied to a forward RF power adjustment event, depending on the inputssuch as network conditions and/or transmission requirements. The plot1500 depicts actual RF transmission power over time of high transmissionactivity (subject to differing levels of attenuation). The line 1502depicts average power on a modem-to-antenna transmission line coupling,as monitored by a medium averaging filter. In the scenario presented inFIG. 15, the fast average filter exhibits an average power period thatis smaller than the rolling time window specified by SAR regulations.

The attenuation profile 1504 depicts the incremental levels ofattenuation applied to the actual RF transmission power over time,responsive to triggering of a forward RF power adjustment event by themedium averaging filter and selection of the attenuation profile. In theillustrated scenario, when the average power monitored during an averagepower period by the medium average filter exceeds a threshold (e.g., −35dbm in this scenario), an RF power adjustment trigger signal isactivated to adjust the RF power supplied to the antenna. The edge 1506generally depicts an incremental increase in attenuation magnitude overtime, contributing to a decrease in the magnitude of actual RFtransmission power spikes over time. The edge 1508 generally depicts anincremental decrease in attenuation magnitude over time, contributing anincrease in the magnitude of actual RF transmission power spikes overtime.

In some implementations, a hysteresis is introduced when the averagepower exceeds a threshold. The hysteresis delays the RF power adjustmenttrigger signal to allow confirmation that the threshold-exceedingactivity is not an anomalous event. For example, if the average powermonitored during an average power period by the medium average filterstill exceeds the threshold at the end of the hysteresis delay, then thetrigger condition is confirmed, and the RF power adjustment trigger isactivated to adjust the RF power supplied to the antenna. A hysteresismay also be applied to the decrease in attenuations, such that the startof attenuation is delayed until the transmitted average power during theaverage time period is confirmed to be decreasing below a threshold.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation using a fast filter. Asdiscussed, different attenuation profiles at any particular time may beapplied to forward RF power adjustment event, depending on the inputssuch as network conditions and/or transmission requirements. The plot1600 depicts actual RF transmission power over time of high transmissionactivity (subject to differing levels of attenuation). The line 1602depicts average power on a modem-to-antenna transmission line coupling,as monitored by a fast averaging filter. In the scenario presented inFIG. 16, the fast average filter exhibits an average power period thatis smaller than the rolling time window specified by SAR regulations andis also smaller than the average power period over the slow and mediumaveraging filters.

The attenuation profile 1604 depicts the incremental levels ofattenuation applied to the actual RF transmission power over time,responsive to triggering of a forward RF power adjustment event by thefast averaging filter and selection of the attenuation profile. In theillustrated scenario, when the average power monitored during an averagepower period by the fast average filter exceeds a threshold (e.g., −35dbm in this scenario), an RF power adjustment trigger signal isactivated to adjust the RF power supplied to the antenna. The edge 1606generally depicts an incremental increase in attenuation magnitude overtime, contributing to a decrease in the magnitude of actual RFtransmission power spikes over time. The edge 1608 generally depicts anincremental decrease in attenuation magnitude over time, contributing anincrease in the magnitude of actual RF transmission power spikes overtime.

In some implementations, a hysteresis is introduced when the averagepower exceeds a threshold. The hysteresis delays the RF power adjustmenttrigger signal to allow confirmation that the threshold-exceedingactivity is not an anomalous event. For example, if the average powermonitored during an average power period by the medium average filterstill exceeds the threshold at the end of the hysteresis delay, then thetrigger condition is confirmed, and the RF power adjustment trigger isactivated to adjust the RF power supplied to the antenna. A hysteresismay also be applied to the decrease in attenuations, such that the startof attenuation is delayed until the transmitted average power during theaverage time period is confirmed to be decreasing below a threshold.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example attenuation profile applicable by controllogic for proximity-independent SAR mitigation using a slow filter. Asdiscussed, different attenuation profiles at any particular time may beapplied to forward RF power adjustment event, depending on the inputssuch as network conditions and/or transmission requirements. The plot1700 depicts actual RF transmission power over time of high transmissionactivity (subject to differing levels of attenuation). The line 1702depicts average power on a modem-to-antenna transmission line coupling,as monitored by a slow averaging filter. In the scenario presented inFIG. 17, the slow average filter exhibits an average power period thatis about the same as the rolling time window specified by SARregulations.

The attenuation profile 1704 depicts the incremental levels ofattenuation applied to the actual RF transmission power over time,responsive to triggering of a forward RF power adjustment event by theslow averaging filter and selection of the attenuation profile. In theillustrated scenario, when the average power monitored during an averagepower period by the fast average filter exceeds a threshold (e.g., −35dbm in this scenario), an RF power adjustment trigger signal isactivated to adjust the RF power supplied to the antenna. The edge 1706generally depicts an incremental increase in attenuation magnitude overtime, contributing to a decrease in the magnitude of actual RFtransmission power spikes over time. The edge 1708 generally depicts anincremental decrease in attenuation magnitude over time, contributing anincrease in the magnitude of actual RF transmission power spikes overtime.

In some implementations, a hysteresis is introduced when the averagepower exceeds a threshold. The hysteresis delays the RF power adjustmenttrigger signal to allow confirmation that the threshold-exceedingactivity is not an anomalous event. For example, if the average powermonitored during an average power period by the medium average filterstill exceeds the threshold at the end of the hysteresis delay, then thetrigger condition is confirmed, and the RF power adjustment trigger isactivated to adjust the RF power supplied to the antenna. A hysteresismay also be applied to the decrease in attenuations, such that the startof attenuation is delayed until the transmitted average power during theaverage time period is confirmed to be decreasing below a threshold.

It should be understood that RF transmission power limits or thresholds,attenuation profiles, hysteresis values, average power periods, rollingtime windows, etc. may be programmable or otherwise adjustable before orduring operation of the SAR mitigation process.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example system (labeled as a communicationsdevice 1800) that may be useful in implementing the describedtechnology. The communications device 1800 may be a client device suchas a laptop, mobile device, desktop, tablet, or a server/cloud device.The communications device 1800 includes one or more processor(s) 1802,and a memory 1804. The memory 1804 generally includes both volatilememory (e.g., RAM) and non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory). Anoperating system 1810 resides in the memory 1804 and is executed by theprocessor(s) 1802.

One or more application programs 1812 modules or segments, such as anantenna module(s) 1848, a SAR controller(s) 1850, and/or a detector(s)1852 are loaded in the memory 1804 and/or storage 1820 and executed bythe processor(s) 1802. Data such as signal context patterns, SAR RFpower thresholds, conditions, etc. may be stored in the memory 1804 orstorage 1820 and may be retrievable by the processor(s) 1802 for use inthe by the antenna modules 1848, the SAR controllers 1850, the detectors1852, etc. The storage 1820 may be local to the communications device1800 or may be remote and communicatively connected to thecommunications device 1800 and may include another server. The storage1820 may store resources that are requestable by client devices (notshown).

The communications device 1800 includes a power supply 1816, which ispowered by one or more batteries or other power sources and whichprovides power to other components of the communications device 1800.The power supply 1816 may also be connected to an external power sourcethat overrides or recharges the built-in batteries or other powersources.

The communications device 1800 may include one or more communicationtransceivers 1830 which may be connected to one or more antennaassemblies 1832 to provide network connectivity (e.g., mobile phonenetwork, Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, etc.) to one or more other servers and/orclient devices (e.g., mobile devices, desktop computers, or laptopcomputers). The communications device 1800 may further include a networkadapter 1836, which is a type of communication device. Thecommunications device 1800 may use the adapter and any other types ofcommunication devices for establishing connections over a wide-areanetwork (WAN) or local-area network (LAN). It should be appreciated thatthe network connections shown are exemplary and that othercommunications devices and means for establishing a communications linkbetween the communications device 1800 and other devices may be used.The one or more antenna assemblies 1832 may include isolators,circulators, capacitive taps, detectors, pads, analog to digitalconverters, etc.

The communications device 1800 may include one or more input devices1834 such that a user may enter commands and information (e.g., akeyboard or mouse). These and other input devices may be coupled to theserver by one or more interfaces 1838 such as a serial port interface,parallel port, universal serial bus (USB), etc. The communicationsdevice 1800 may further include a display 1822 such as a touch screendisplay.

The communications device 1800 may include a variety of tangibleprocessor-readable storage media and intangible processor-readablecommunication signals. Tangible processor-readable storage can beembodied by any available media that can be accessed by thecommunications device 1800 and includes both volatile and nonvolatilestorage media, removable and non-removable storage media. Tangibleprocessor-readable storage media excludes intangible communicationssignals and includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable andnon-removable storage media implemented in any method or technology forstorage of information such as processor-readable instructions, datastructures, program modules or other data. Tangible processor-readablestorage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flashmemory or other memory technology, CDROM, digital versatile disks (DVD)or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape,magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any othertangible medium which can be used to store the desired information andwhich can be accessed by the processing system 1800. In contrast totangible processor-readable storage media, intangible processor-readablecommunication signals may embody processor-readable instructions, datastructures, program modules or other data resident in a modulated datasignal, such as a carrier wave or other signal transport mechanism. Theterm “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of itscharacteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode informationin the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, intangiblecommunication signals include signals traveling through wired media suchas a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media suchas acoustic, RF, infrared, and other wireless media.

Some implementations may comprise an article of manufacture. An articleof manufacture may comprise a tangible storage medium to store logic.Examples of a storage medium may include one or more types ofprocessor-readable storage media capable of storing electronic data,including volatile memory or non-volatile memory, removable ornon-removable memory, erasable or non-erasable memory, writeable orre-writeable memory, and so forth. Examples of the logic may includevarious software elements, such as software components, programs,applications, computer programs, application programs, system programs,machine programs, operating system software, middleware, firmware,software modules, routines, subroutines, operation segments, methods,procedures, software interfaces, application program interfaces (API),instruction sets, computing code, computer code, code segments, computercode segments, words, values, symbols, or any combination thereof. Inone implementation, for example, an article of manufacture may storeexecutable computer program instructions that, when executed by acomputer, cause the computer to perform methods and/or operations inaccordance with the described implementations. The executable computerprogram instructions may include any suitable type of code, such assource code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, staticcode, dynamic code, and the like. The executable computer programinstructions may be implemented according to a predefined computerlanguage, manner or syntax, for instructing a computer to perform acertain operation segment. The instructions may be implemented using anysuitable high-level, low-level, object-oriented, visual, compiled and/orinterpreted programming language.

An example method regulates forward radiofrequency (RF) power suppliedby an RF transmitter circuit to an RF transmitting antenna and includesdetecting forward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to theRF transmitting antenna and receiving at multiple filters RF powersamples of the supplied forward RF power. Each filter differentlyfilters the received forward power samples to apply a different averagepower period. Each filter further activates an RF power adjustmenttrigger signal while a time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RFtransmitting antenna satisfies a forward RF power adjustment conditionfor the average power period of the filter. The example method alsoadjusts the forward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit tothe RF transmitting antenna based on the RF power adjustment triggersignal.

Another example method of any preceding method further includesselecting one of the multiple filters from which to output the RF poweradjustment trigger signal.

Another example method of any preceding method is provided wherein theselecting operation selects one of the multiple filters based on atleast one of network conditions and transmission requirements.

Another example method of any preceding method further includes applyingan attenuation profile while the RF power adjustment trigger signal isactive and the adjusting operation adjusts the forward RF power suppliedby the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna accordingto the attenuation profile.

Another example method of any preceding method is provided wherein theattenuation profile specifies magnitudes of incremental adjustments inforward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RFtransmitting antenna.

Another example method of any preceding method is provided wherein theattenuation profile specifies durations of incremental adjustments inforward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RFtransmitting antenna.

Another example method of any preceding method is provided wherein thedetecting operation includes isolating the forward RF power fromreflected RF power in a supply coupling between the RF transmittercircuit and the RF transmitting antenna.

An example radiofrequency (RF) power regulator includes a forward RFpower detection circuit operable to detect forward RF power supplied byan RF transmitter circuit to an RF transmitting antenna. An RF powersampler is coupled to the forward RF power detection circuit andprovides RF power samples of the supplied forward RF power. Multiplefilters are coupled to receive the RF power samples. Each filterdifferently filters the received forward power samples to apply adifferent average power period. Each filter further activates an RFpower adjustment trigger signal while a time-averaged forward RF powersupplied to the RF transmitting antenna satisfies a forward RF poweradjustment condition for the average power period of the filter. ForwardRF power adjustment logic is coupled to the filters and is operable toadjust the forward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit tothe RF transmitting antenna based on the RF power adjustment triggersignal.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator furtherincludes a filter selector coupled to the multiple filters and operableto select one of the multiple filters from which to output the RF poweradjustment trigger signal.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the filter selector is operable to select one of themultiple filters based on at least one of network conditions andtransmission requirements.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator furtherincludes an attenuation profile controller operable to apply anattenuation profile while the RF power adjustment trigger signal isactive and to adjust the forward RF power supplied by the RF transmittercircuit to the RF transmitting antenna according to the attenuationprofile.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the attenuation profile specifies magnitudes ofincremental adjustments in forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the attenuation profile specifies durations ofincremental adjustments in forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the forward RF power detection circuit includes forwardRF power isolation circuitry coupled between the RF transmitter circuitand the RF transmitting antenna and operable to isolate the forward RFpower from reflected RF power in a supply coupling between the RFtransmitter circuit and the RF transmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the forward RF power isolator circuitry includes adirectional coupler operable to detect the forward RF power from thesupply coupling between the RF transmitter circuit and the RFtransmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the forward RF power isolator circuitry includes adirectional coupler operable to detect the forward RF power from thesupply coupling between the RF transmitter circuit and the RFtransmitting antenna and a circulator coupled between the directionalcoupler and the RF transmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the forward RF power isolator circuitry includes acapacitive tap operable to detect the forward RF power from the supplycoupling between the RF transmitter circuit and the RF transmittingantenna and a circulator coupled between the capacitive tap and the RFtransmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the forward RF power isolator circuitry includes adirectional coupler operable to detect the forward RF power from thesupply coupling between the RF transmitter circuit and the RFtransmitting antenna and an isolator coupled between the directionalcoupler and the RF transmitting antenna.

Another example RF power regulator of any preceding regulator isprovided wherein the forward RF power isolator circuitry includes acapacitive tap operable to detect the forward RF power from the supplycoupling between the RF transmitter circuit and the RF transmittingantenna and an isolator coupled between the capacitive tap and the RFtransmitting antenna.

An example communications device includes a radiofrequency (RF)transmitting antenna, an RF transmitter circuit coupled to supplyforward RF power to the RF transmitting antenna, a forward RF powerdetection circuit operable to detect the forward RF power supplied bythe RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna, an RF powersampler coupled to the forward RF power detection circuit and to provideRF power samples of the supplied forward RF power, and multiple filterscoupled to receive the RF power samples. Each filter differently filtersthe received forward power samples to apply a different average powerperiod. Each filter further activates an RF power adjustment triggersignal while a time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RFtransmitting antenna satisfies a forward RF power adjustment conditionfor the average power period of the filter. A filter selector is coupledto the multiple filters and is operable to select one of the multiplefilters from which to output the RF power adjustment trigger signalbased on at least one of network conditions and transmissionrequirements. Forward RF power adjustment logic is coupled to the filterselector and is operable to adjust the forward RF power supplied by theRF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna based on the RFpower adjustment trigger signal output from the selected filter.

An example system regulates forward radiofrequency (RF) power suppliedby an RF transmitter circuit to an RF transmitting antenna and includesmeans for detecting forward RF power supplied by the RF transmittercircuit to the RF transmitting antenna and means for receiving atmultiple filters RF power samples of the supplied forward RF power. Eachfilter differently filters the received forward power samples to apply adifferent average power period. Each filter further activates an RFpower adjustment trigger signal while a time-averaged forward RF powersupplied to the RF transmitting antenna satisfies a forward RF poweradjustment condition for the average power period of the filter. Theexample system also includes means for adjusting the forward RF powersupplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antennabased on the RF power adjustment trigger signal.

Another example system of any preceding system further includes meansfor selecting one of the multiple filters from which to output the RFpower adjustment trigger signal.

Another example system of any preceding system is provided wherein themeans for selecting selects one of the multiple filters based on atleast one of network conditions and transmission requirements.

Another example system of any preceding system further includes meansfor applying an attenuation profile while the RF power adjustmenttrigger signal is active. The means for adjusting adjusts the forward RFpower supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmittingantenna according to the attenuation profile.

Another example system of any preceding system is provided wherein theattenuation profile specifies magnitudes of incremental adjustments inforward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RFtransmitting antenna.

Another example system of any preceding system is provided wherein theattenuation profile specifies durations of incremental adjustments inforward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RFtransmitting antenna.

Another example system of any preceding system further includes isprovided wherein the means for detecting includes means for isolatingthe forward RF power from reflected RF power in a supply couplingbetween the RF transmitter circuit and the RF transmitting antenna.

The implementations described herein are implemented as logical steps inone or more computer systems. The logical operations may be implemented(1) as a sequence of processor-implemented steps executing in one ormore computer systems and (2) as interconnected machine or circuitmodules within one or more computer systems. The implementation is amatter of choice, dependent on the performance requirements of thecomputer system being utilized. Accordingly, the logical operationsmaking up the implementations described herein are referred to variouslyas operations, steps, objects, or modules. Furthermore, it should beunderstood that logical operations may be performed in any order, unlessexplicitly claimed otherwise or a specific order is inherentlynecessitated by the claim language.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of regulating forward radiofrequency(RF) power supplied by an RF transmitter circuit to an RF transmittingantenna, the method comprising: detecting the forward RF power suppliedby the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna; monitoringRF power samples of the supplied forward RF power over at least oneaverage power period; activating an RF power adjustment trigger signalwhile a time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RF transmittingantenna satisfies a forward RF power adjustment condition for the atleast one average power period, the forward RF power adjustmentcondition specifying a relation between the time-averaged forward RFpower supplied to the RF transmitting antenna during the at least oneaverage power period and a first predetermined time-averaged powerthreshold; and adjusting the forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna based on the RF poweradjustment trigger signal.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the at leastone average power period includes a plurality of average power periods,wherein the monitoring operation is performed at multiple filters, eachfilter differently filtering the monitored RF power samples to apply adifferent average power period of the plurality of average powerperiods.
 3. The method of claim 2 further comprising: selecting one ofthe multiple filters from which to output the RF power adjustmenttrigger signal.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the selecting operationselects one of the multiple filters based on at least one of networkconditions and transmission requirements.
 5. The method of claim 1further comprising: applying an attenuation profile while the RF poweradjustment trigger signal is active, the adjusting operation adjustingthe forward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RFtransmitting antenna according to the attenuation profile.
 6. The methodof claim 5 wherein the attenuation profile specifies magnitudes ofincremental adjustments in forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna.
 7. The method ofclaim 5 wherein the attenuation profile specifies durations ofincremental adjustments in forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna.
 8. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the detecting operation comprises: isolating the forwardRF power from reflected RF power in a supply coupling between the RFtransmitter circuit and the RF transmitting antenna.
 9. A radiofrequency(RF) power regulator comprising: a forward RF power detection circuitconfigured to detect forward RF power supplied by an RF transmittercircuit to an RF transmitting antenna; an RF power sampler coupled tothe forward RF power detection circuit, the RF power sampler configuredto provide RF power samples of the supplied forward RF power over atleast one average power period; at least one filter to monitor the RFpower samples, the at least one filter activating an RF power adjustmenttrigger signal while a time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RFtransmitting antenna satisfies a forward RF power adjustment conditionfor the at least one filter, the forward RF power adjustment conditionspecifying a relation between the time-averaged forward RF powersupplied to the RF transmitting antenna during the at least one averagepower period and a first predetermined time-averaged power threshold;and forward RF power adjustment logic coupled to the at least one filterand configured to adjust the forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna based on the RF poweradjustment trigger signal.
 10. The RF power regulator of claim 9 whereinthe at least one filter includes a plurality multiple filters, whereineach filter of the multiple filters differently filters the monitored RFpower samples to apply a different average power period, and wherein thepower regulator further comprises: a filter selector coupled to themultiple filters and configured to select one of the multiple filtersfrom which to output the RF power adjustment trigger signal.
 11. The RFpower regulator of claim 10 wherein the filter selector is configured toselect one of the multiple filters based on at least one of networkconditions and transmission requirements.
 12. The RF power regulator ofclaim 9 further comprising: an attenuation profile controller configuredto apply an attenuation profile while the RF power adjustment triggersignal is active and to adjust the forward RF power supplied by the RFtransmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna according to theattenuation profile.
 13. The RF power regulator of claim 12 wherein theattenuation profile specifies magnitudes of incremental adjustments ordurations of incremental adjustments in forward RF power supplied by theRF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna.
 14. The RF powerregulator of claim 9 wherein the forward RF power detection circuitcomprises: forward RF power isolation circuitry coupled between the RFtransmitter circuit and the RF transmitting antenna and configured toisolate the forward RF power from reflected RF power in a supplycoupling between the RF transmitter circuit and the RF transmittingantenna.
 15. The RF power regulator of claim 14 wherein the forward RFpower isolator circuitry comprises: a directional coupler configured todetect the forward RF power from the supply coupling between the RFtransmitter circuit and the RF transmitting antenna.
 16. The RF powerregulator of claim 14 wherein the forward RF power isolator circuitrycomprises: a directional coupler configured to detect the forward RFpower from the supply coupling between the RF transmitter circuit andthe RF transmitting antenna; and a circulator coupled between thedirectional coupler and the RF transmitting antenna.
 17. The powerregulator of claim 9, wherein the relation is the time-averaged forwardRF power supplied to the RF transmitting antenna reaching or exceedingthe first predetermined time-averaged power threshold, and wherein theforward RF power adjustment logic is configured to adjust the forward RFpower supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmittingantenna based on the RF power adjustment trigger signal by reducing theforward RF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RFtransmitting antenna.
 18. The power regulator of claim 9, wherein therelation is the time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RFtransmitting antenna being less than the first predeterminedtime-averaged power threshold, and wherein the forward RF poweradjustment logic is configured to adjust the forward RF power suppliedby the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmitting antenna based onthe RF power adjustment trigger signal by increasing the forward RFpower supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmittingantenna.
 19. The power regulator of claim 9, wherein the firstpredetermined time-averaged power threshold is selected to be less thana second predetermined time-averaged power threshold to limit thetime-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RF transmitting antennafrom exceeding the second predetermined time-averaged power threshold.20. One or more tangible processor-readable storage media devicesembodied with instructions for executing on one or more processors andcircuits of a computing device a process comprising: detecting forwardradiofrequency (RF) power supplied by a RF transmitter circuit to an RFtransmitting antenna; monitoring RF power samples of the suppliedforward RF power over at least one average power period; activating anRF power adjustment trigger signal while a time-averaged forward RFpower supplied to the RF transmitting antenna satisfies a forward RFpower adjustment condition for the at least one average power period,the forward RF power adjustment condition specifying a relation betweenthe time-averaged forward RF power supplied to the RF transmittingantenna during the at least one average power period and a firstpredetermined time-averaged power threshold; and adjusting the forwardRF power supplied by the RF transmitter circuit to the RF transmittingantenna based on the RF power adjustment trigger signal.